A lamb trapped down a gully has been rescued by local mountain rescue volunteers.
The animal’s predicament was spotted by a member of the public on 13 June.
There were no foot holds it could use to escape up the cliff and it was cut off by the sea on the rocky coastline by the Butt of Lewis lighthouse on Lewis.
The Scottish SPCA was alerted and called in a rescue team.
Maggie Adkins, an auxiliary inspector with the animal welfare charity, said: “I knew I wouldn’t be able to reach the youngster as it was on an inaccessible part of the cliffs, so I called Hebrides Mountain Rescue Team.
“Thankfully the lamb was unharmed by its ordeal and we were able to reunite it with its mother shortly afterwards.”
In May another lamb had to be rescued in a similar situation from the cliffs of North Tolsta on the island.
Ms Adkins said: “I’m very grateful to Hebrides Mountain Rescue Team once again, especially at this difficult time with increased restrictions due to lockdown. Their continued support and assistance is greatly appreciated. Without them, I would not have been able to rescue the stranded lambs.”
Charlie Greenwood, team leader at mountain rescue team, said: “The team responded with minimal personnel to rescue the fallen lamb safely.
“On arrival to the scene, we could tell this rescue was reasonably straightforward. The young sheep was quickly captured and removed from the coastal gorge.
“Minor changes to normal protocol were made to enable social distancing.”
After a check over from the crofter the lamb was reunited with its mother.
“Since the end of March the team has been unable to conduct its regular training programme, these animal rescues provide the opportunity to maintain key skills and help an animal in need.
“The team is looking forward to resuming training as soon as possible and will continue to help anyone or animals requiring assistance.”
If anyone finds an animal in distress they should call the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.
Trapped lamb rescued from gully
19 June 2020
